Prepare your visit: history and landscapes
Morlaix's history is marked by its exceptional geographical location, at the bottom of an estuary between León and the Trégor. A city closed in the Middle Ages, it was enriched by the flax and tobacco trade. Today, the urban landscape is dominated by its impressive railway viaduct, an architectural feat of the 19th century that overlooks the Dardian roofs.
It is a city of character that offers walks full of surprises. Whether you are strolling along the docks of the harbour or climbing the many steep venals, Morlaix will reveal its medieval charms and its wooden houses. From the heights, you will have a breathtaking view of the Morlaix river and, in clear weather, the foothills of the Monts d'Arrée.
Legends and must see on the way
This historic place has a unique architecture that feeds many stories. Looking at the cobblestones, look up: the carved facades still seem to tell of the adventures of the rich merchants of the past.
The Legend of Houses in Pondalez:
Unique in Morlaix, the House in Pondalez hide an architectural secret. It is said that these houses were designed to allow residents to move from one room to another via hanging wooden galleries (bridges) over a huge central hall heated by a monumental fireplace. Entering one of these houses is like going back to time and imagining the life of the Léonard families in the Renaissance.
Mandatory must-haves:
- The Viaduct of Morlaix: A colossal granite monument. It is possible to access the first floor for a dizzying ride over the city.
- Tobacco Manufacture: A historic industrial site converted to a place of culture and life.
- The Venelles de Morlaix: These small paths and stairways that allow you to discover the city from a secret angle.
- Grain of Sail: chocolate shop open to visits with tasting.
My Practical Tips for Families
Morlaix is easy to visit on foot, but get ready to get your calves to work! Here are some tips for your day:
- The comfortable shoes (baskets) are strongly advised to face the pavements and numerous stairs of the venals.
- If you have a young child, give priority to Baby carrier. Morlaix is a city of stairs and slopes; The stroller will be very practical on the docks and in the flat shopping streets, but will become an obstacle as soon as you want to explore the heights or climb on the viaduct.
- Find the starting point via this Google Maps link.
Photo gallery: the views not to be missed
Do not leave without your digital memory! The perfect spot for a successful photo is undoubtedly the first floor of the Viaduc, for a diving view of the harbour and colorful houses. For a more typical cliché, visit the Butter to capture the alignment of medieval houses.
What I like:
Located in the bay bearing its name, Morlaix is the ideal city for a peaceful Sunday walk. Here, houses tell you their stories with authenticity. Its paved streets and narrow paths, often on the slope, will make you spend a moment full of adventure and calm. For me, a walk on the viaduct is unsurpassable for a while in Morlaix. It will offer you a stunning view of the city and make you feel immense compared to the people below.
